Nurmagomedov defended journalist from Abdel-Aziz at UFC 223

Azamat Bostanov, now an MMA manager, recounted his experience as a Russian journalist covering Khabib Nurmagomedov's UFC 223 title win eight years ago in Brooklyn. After interviewing Artem Lobov following the famous confrontation with Khabib, Bostanov encountered Ali Abdel-Aziz at the hotel who emotionally told him not to approach their team. However, Khabib intervened, putting his arm around Bostanov's shoulder and telling Abdel-Aziz, "This is our guy, he's just doing his work." Bostanov also recalled Khabib's graciousness after the fight, taking time to photograph with him despite being exhausted, and how 20-30 Dagestanis gathered at the hotel ready to protect Khabib from potential provocations from Conor McGregor's team. He noted that years later, Khabib remained the same friendly person who once stopped his vehicle to offer him a ride.